Broadband telecommunications system interface

ABSTRACT

The invention is a system for interfacing a GR-303 system with a broadband system. The broadband system can be an ATM system. The invention can process the GR-303 signaling to select ATM connections and then interwork the GR-303 connections with the selected ATM connections. The invention can interwork GR-303 signaling and SS7 signaling. The invention can also process SS7 signaling to select GR-303 connections and then interwork ATM connections with the selected GR-303 connections.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.10/237,759, which is a continuation of U.S. Pat. No. 6,470,009, which isa continuation of U.S. Pat. No. 6,304,580, which is a continuation ofU.S. Pat. No. 6,023,474, and which are all incorporated by referenceinto this application.

FEDERALLY SPONSERED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable

MICROFICHE APPENDIX

Not applicable

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The invention relates to telecommunications, and in particular, tosystems that provide access between GR-303 systems and broadbandsystems.

2. Background of the Prior Art

FIG. 1 depicts a common prior art arrangement for localtelecommunications access. Shown are telephones that are connected to alocal switch through remote digital terminals. Typically, there areseveral more telephones connected to each remote digital terminal, butthe number depicted has been restricted for purposes of clarity. Theconnections between the telephones and the remote digital terminalstypically carry analog signals over twisted pair wires. but otherconnections are also known. The remote digital terminals provide adigital interface between the callers and the local switch by convertingthe analog signals from the callers into a multiplexed digital signalfor the local switch. A common standard for the connection between theremote digital terminal and the local switch is provided in BellcoreReference GR-TSY-000303 (GR-303). The GR-303 format is very similar tothe Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) format. ISDN has bearerchannels (B) and a signaling channel (D) that are typically combined atthe primary rate (23B+D) or at the basic rate (2B+D). Both the ISDNformat and the GR-303 format are well known.

At present, broadband systems are being developed and implemented.Broadband systems provide telecommunications service providers with manybenefits, including higher capacities, more efficient use of bandwidth,and the ability to integrate voice, data, and video communications.These broadband systems provide callers with increased capabilities atlower costs. However, callers may not have broadband terminals that canaccess these broadband systems. These callers need an effectiveinterface that provides them with access to sophisticated broadbandsystems without the need for their own broadband terminals.Telecommunications service providers also need such an interface inorder to use their broadband systems to provide services to a largerbase of users.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention includes a telecommunications system that interworksbetween a broadband system, such as an Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM)system, and a GR-303 system for telecommunications calls. Thetelecommunications system-comprises a signaling processing system, asignaling interface, and a bearer interface. The signaling processingsystem is operational to process call signaling from the GR-303 systemand from the ATM system, to select at least one of a GR-303 connectionand an ATM connection for each call, and to provide control messagesthat identify the selected connections. The signaling interface that isoperational to exchange the call signaling between the GR-303 system andthe signaling processing system. The bearer interface that isoperational to receive the control messages from the signalingprocessing system and to interwork call communications between theGR-303 system and the ATM system on the selected connections based onthe control messages.

In some embodiments the signaling processing system is also operationalto interwork the signaling from the GR-303 system and Signaling System#7 (SS7) signaling. Other embodiments include a remote digital terminal,an ATM cross-connect, an ATM multiplexer, a signaling converter, or asignaling processor.

The invention also includes a method for operating a telecommunicationssystem that interworks between a GR-303 system and an AsynchronousTransfer Mode (ATM) system for telecommunications calls. The methodcomprises receiving GR-303 signaling and GR-303 communications into thetelecommunications system. The GR-303 signaling is converted intoSignaling System #7 (SS7) signaling, which is processed to select ATMconnections. The GR-303 connections are interworked with the selectedATM connections.

In some embodiments, the method also includes receiving SS7 signalingand ATM communications into the telecommunications system. The SS7signaling is processed to select GR-303 connections, and the ATMcommunications are interworked with the selected GR-303 connections. Insome embodiments, the method also includes receiving additional GR-303signaling and additional GR-303 communications into thetelecommunications system. The additional GR-303 signaling is convertedinto additional Signaling System #7 (SS7) signaling which is processedto select GR-303 connections. The additional GR-303 communications areinterconnected with the selected GR-303 connections.

The invention provides callers with an effective interface tosophisticated broadband systems without the need for their own broadbandterminals. The invention provides telecommunications service providerswith an interface that can use broadband systems to provide services toa large base of users.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a version of the prior art.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a version of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a version of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a message sequence chart for a version of the presentinvention.

FIG. 5 is a message sequence chart for a version of the presentinvention.

FIG. 6 is a message sequence chart for a version of the invention.

FIG. 7 is a message sequence chart for a version of the invention.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram of a version of the invention.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram of a version of the invention.

FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a version of the invention.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram of a version of the invention.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram of a version of the invention.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram of a version of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a logic diagram of a version of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a logic diagram of a version of the present invention.

FIG. 16 depicts an example of the trunk circuit table.

FIG. 17 depicts an example of the trunk group table.

FIG. 18 depicts an example of the exception table.

FIG. 19 depicts an example of the ANI table.

FIG. 20 depicts an example of the called number table.

FIG. 21 depicts an-example of the routing table.

FIG. 22 depicts an example of the treatment table.

FIG. 23 depicts an example of the message table.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 depicts the prior art arrangement discussed above for providingaccess to a telecommunications system. In this arrangement, telephonesare connected over analog connections to remote digital terminals. Theremote digital terminals convert the analog signals into a multiplexeddigital signal that is based on the GR-303 standard. The local switchaccepts the GR-303 formatted signal and provides the callers withtelephone service. All of these components and connections are wellknown in the art.

FIG. 2 depicts a version of the invention. Telephones 210-215 are shownconnected to remote digital terminals 220 and 222. These telephones andremote digital terminals are connected and function as discussed abovewith respect to FIG. 1. It should be noted that although only telephonesare shown, the invention is fully applicable to numerous other types ofcommunications devices seeking access to a broadband system. Exampleswould include wireless devices, computers, modems, and facsimilemachines. These devices may employ many forms of connections to remotedigital terminals 220 and 222, for example, wireless and co-axialconnections. Also shown on FIG. 2 is broadband system interface 200.Broadband system interface 200 replaces the local switch of FIG. 1.Broadband system interface 200 is connected to remote digital terminal220 by connection 230 and link 231. Broadband system interface 200 isconnected to remote digital terminal 222 by connection 232 and link 233.Connections 230 and 232 are based on the GR-303 format and represent thebearer channels. Links 231 and 233 are based on the GR-303 format andrepresent the signaling channels. Also shown are connection 240 andsignaling link 242. Connection 240 is a broadband connection, forexample a Synchronous Optical Network (SONET) connection carryingAsynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) cells. Other forms of broadbandconnections are also applicable. Signaling link 242 carriestelecommunications signaling; for example Signaling System #7 (SS7)messages. Other forms of signaling links are also applicable. Connection240 and link 242 are connected to a broadband network cloud thatrepresents any number of network elements such as switches, enhancedplatforms, and servers to name some examples.

The operation of broadband system 200 includes the conversion of bearercommunications and signaling from one format into another. Bearercommunications are the user information, for example, voice traffic.Signaling is information used by the network, for example, a callednumber. In some embodiments the conversion process is described with theterm “interworking”. This term is well known to those in the art. Forexample, GR-303 signaling is interworked with SS7 signaling byconverting GR-303 signaling into analogous SS7 signaling and byconverting SS7 signaling into analogous GR-303 signaling. GR-303 bearercommunications are interworked with ATM communications by convertingGR-303 bearer communications into analogous ATM communications and byconverting ATM communications into analogous GR-303 communications.

Broadband system interface 200 accepts calls in the GR-303 format fromconnection 230 and link 231 and from connection 232 and link 233.Broadband system interface 200 provides a bearer interface for theGR-303 bearer channels and a signaling interface for the GR-303signaling channels. The signaling interface provides the GR-303signaling to a signaling processing system in broadband system interface200. The signaling processing system processes the call signaling andselects connections for the calls. The bearer interface receivescommunications from the GR-303 bearer channels and implements theselected connections in response to instructions from the signalingprocessing system. Typically, this requires interworking between GR-303connections and broadband connections, and the connections can beselected on a call-by-call basis. Broadband system interface 200 mayroute calls to one of the other telephones connected to remote digitalterminals 220 or 222. In addition, broadband interface system 200 mayroute calls over broadband connection 240 and associated signaling overlink 242. Connection 240 and link 242 could connect callers to manyother networks and network elements that provide numerous services.

It can be seen that broadband system interface 200 provides callers withaccess to a broadband system. In can also be seen that broadband system200 is capable of accepting calls in the standard GR-303 formatcurrently used by local switches.

FIG. 3 depicts a version of the invention, although one skilled in theart will recognize variations from this version that are alsocontemplated for the invention. Shown are telephones 310-315, remotedigital terminals 320 and 322, and broadband system interface 300.Broadband system interface 300 is comprised of ATM interworkingmultiplexer (mux) 350, signaling processor 360, and signaling converter362. Remote digital terminal 320 is connected to mux 350 by connection330 and link 331. Remote digital terminal 322 is connected to mux 350 byconnection 332 and link 333. Mux 350, signaling processor 360, andconverter 362 are linked by link 352. Mux 350 is linked to signalingconverter 362 by link 354. Signaling converter 362 is linked tosignaling processor by link 364. Mux 350 is also connected to connection340 and signaling processor 360 is also linked to link 342.

Telephones 310-315, remote digital terminals 320 and 322, connections330 and 332, and links 331 and 333 are as described above. Connections320 and 322 and links 331 and 333 comprise GR-303 multiplexed digitalsignals. The GR-303 multiplexed digital signal is comprised of multiplebearer channels that carry caller communications and a signaling channelthat carries caller signaling. Link 352 could be any link capable oftransporting control messages. Examples of such a link could be SS7links, UDP/IP or TCP/IP over ethernet, or a bus arrangement using aconventional bus protocol. Link 354 carries DS0s that comprise GR-303signaling channels. Links 342 and 364 are SS7 links. Connection 340 isan ATM connection.

Mux 350 provides the bearer interface and the signaling interface. Mux350 is operational to receive GR-303 formatted communications overconnections 330 and 332 and links 331 and 333. The bearer channels fromconnections 330 and 332 and the signaling channels from links 331 and333 are in the well known DS0 format. Mux 350 is able to connect eachDS0 to any other DS0. Mux 350 connects the DS0 from link 331 to a DS0 oflink 354 to provide a GR-303 signaling channel from remote digitalterminal 320 to signaling converter 362. Mux 350 connects the DS0 fromlink 333 to a DS0 of link 354 to provide a GR-303 signaling channel fromremote digital terminal 322 to signaling converter 362. Mux 350 can alsoconnect DS0s that carry user communications. For example, a DS0 fromtelephone 310 could be connected to a DS0 for telephone 314. Mux 350 canmake this latter DS0 to DS0 connection in response to controlinstructions from signaling processor 360 that are received over link352.

Mux 350 is also operational to convert DS0s into ATM cells with selectedVirtual Path Identifiers/Virtual Channel Identifiers (VPI/VCIs). Thisconversion is known as ATM interworking. These ATM cells are transmittedover connection 340. Typically, they are provided to an ATMcross-connect device that routes the cells according to their VPI/VCI.Since DS0s are bi-directional, a companion VPI/VCI will typically bepre-assigned to the selected VPI/VCI to provide a call connection backto the caller. The mux would convert ATM cells from this companionVPI/VCI into the return path of the DS0. Mux 350 makes the DS0/ATMconversions in response to control instructions from signaling processor360 that are received over link 352.

In this embodiment, mux 350 also includes digital signal processingcapability that can detect and provide tones for particular DS0s. Forexample, Mux 350 could apply dial tone to a particular DS0 in responseto a control instruction from signaling converter 362. Mux 350 couldthen detect the DTMF inputs received from the caller over the DS0 andprovide this information to signaling converter 362 over link 352. Adetailed description of the mux is given below.

Signaling processor 360 and signaling converter 362 comprise a signalingprocessing system that is operational to receive GR-303 signaling andselect connections. It can also receive SS7 signaling and selectconnections. These two components can be integrated or remain discreet.

Signaling converter 362 interworks between GR-303 signaling and SS7signaling. Signaling converter 362 exchanges GR-303 signaling withremote terminal devices 320 and 322 over links 354, 331, and 333 (andthrough mux 350). Signaling converter 362 exchanges SS7 signaling withsignaling processor 360 over link 364. GR-303 relies on the LAPD andQ.931 protocols established for ISDN D channel signaling. Devices thatconvert ISDN D channel signaling onto the SS7 format are known. Oneskilled in the art will appreciate how such a device could be adapted toconvert GR-303 signaling into the SS7 format.

In some embodiments, signaling converter 362 will generate and transmitcontrol instructions to mux 350 over link 354 to collect DTMF input froma caller. This will typically occur in response to a GR-303 set-upmessage. After these digits are collected by mux 350, signalingconverter 362 will receive a message from mux 350 over link 352 thatidentifies the digits dialed by the caller. These digits will beincorporated into an SS7 message sent to signaling processor 360.Signaling converter 362 may also instruct mux 350 to provide ringback tocaller at the far end of the call. The mux would provide a ringback tothe caller at the far end that indicates the called party at the nearend was being alerted. Where appropriate, a busy signal may be provided.Signaling converter 262 may also instruct the mux to provide the callersnumber to the called party. This could be used for the caller IDfeature.

Signaling processor 360 is operational to process signaling. Thesignaling processor will typically process an SS7 Initial AddressMessage (IAM) for call set-up. The signaling information is processed bysignaling processor 360 in order to select a particular connection for aparticular call. This connection might be a DS0 or a VPI/VCI. Signalingprocessor 360 sends control instructions to mux 350 identifying theselected connections. A detailed description of the signaling processorfollows below.

FIG. 4 depicts the operation of the invention in the form of a messagesequence chart. FIG. 4 depicts a call being placed from a telephone (forexample, telephone 310 in FIG. 3) to an entity across the country. Thesequence starts with the telephone seizing a connection to the remotedigital terminal. This could be done by the telephone going off-hook.The remote digital terminal senses the off-hook condition and sends aGR-303 set-up message to the signaling converter through the mux. (Asthe mux transfers all messages between the signaling converter and theremote digital terminal, express reference to this transfer will beomitted in the following discussions). The set-up message identifies theDS0 used by the remote digital terminal for the call. The signalingconverter provides a set-up acknowledgment back to the remote digitalterminal and instructs the mux to collect DTMF from the DS0 for thecall. The mux provides dial tone to the selected DS0 and internallyconnects the DS0 to digit collection apparatus. (On ground startcircuits at this time, the remote digital terminal will send tip-ringvoltage to the telephone and receive loop closure from thetelephone—these are not shown). The telephone responds with the caller'sDTMF input. The mux detects the DTMF input and provides a message to thesignaling converter identifying the dialed number. The signalingconverter converts the GR-303 set-up message into an analogous SS7 IAMcontaining the dialed number from the mux and sends the SS7 IAM to thesignaling processor.

The signaling processor processes the SS7 IAM and selects a connection.For a cross-country call, this connection would typically be a VPI/VCIprovisioned to a long distance network. The signaling processor willgenerate an SS7 IAM and send it on to the relevant network element toextend the call. The signaling processor also sends a controlinstruction to the mux identifying the DS0 and VPI/VCI.

Once the far end has received all information required for the call, itwill return an SS7 Address Complete Message (ACM) to the signalingprocessor, which will pass another ACM to the signaling converter. Atthis time, the far end typically returns a ringback tone that indicatesthat the called party is being alerted (or a busy signal ifappropriate). This ringback tone is passed to the telephone over theVPI/VCI—DS0 connection. If the called party answers, the signalingprocessor will receive an SS7 Answer Message (ANM) from the far end. Thesignaling processor will send an SS7 ANM message to the converter, andthe converter will send an analogous GR-303 connect message to theremote digital terminal.

At this point, the call is connected and a conversation, faxtransmission, etc., may take place. The mux converts caller informationon the DS0 into ATM cells for the selected VPI/VCI. Additionally, themux converts ATM cells received from the companion VPI/VCI into thereturn path of the DS0. As a result, the caller has access to an ATMsystem through the GR-303 interface. Advantageously, the VPI/VCI isselected on a call-by-call basis by the signaling processor. This allowsthe signaling processor to select a virtual connection that has beenpre-provisioned to an appropriate destination.

FIG. 5 depicts a call from an entity across the country to the sametelephone of FIG. 4. The sequence begins with an SS7 IAM fromorigination side of the call being received by the signaling processor.The signaling processor processes the IAM and selects the destinationDS0. The signaling processor sends an IAM to the signaling converterwhich forwards an analogous GR-303 set-up message to the remote digitalterminal. The set-up message identifies the selected DS0 to use on thecall. The signaling processor also sends a control instruction to themux identifying the VPI/VCI and the selected DS0 for the call.

The remote digital terminal provides seizure and an alerting signal tothe telephone. The remote digital terminal will send a GR-303 alertingmessage to the signaling converter and the signaling converter will sendan analogous SS7 Address Complete Message (ACM) to the signalingprocessor. The signaling converter will also instruct the mux to providea ringback tone to the originating side of the call (or a busy signalwhere appropriate). The mux will provide a ringback to the callerindicating to the caller that the called party is being alerted. Thesignaling processor will send an SS7 ACM to the origination side of thecall.

The remote digital terminal will sense a silent interval after the firstring and will send a GR-303 notify message to the signaling converter.Upon receipt, the signaling converter instruct the mux to pass thecalling number to the telephone and the mux will pass the requisite DTMFtones to the telephone. When the remote digital terminal senses that thetelephone has been answered, it will send a GR-303 connect message tothe signaling converter, and the signaling converter will provide ananalogous SS7 ANM to the signaling processor. The signaling processorwill 'send an SS7 ANM to the originating side of the call. The signalingprocessor will instruct the mux to stop the ringback and providecut-through for the call. At this point, the call is connected.

FIG. 6 depicts a call being cleared when the telephone of FIGS. 4 and 5hangs-up. The remote digital terminal senses the on-hook and sends aGR-303 disconnect message to the signaling converter. The signalingconverter sends an analogous SS7 release (REL) message to the signalingprocessor. The signaling processor sends an SS7 REL to the other side ofthe call connection and-also sends the mux an instruction to disconnectthe DS0 from the VPI/VCI. The signaling processor will then send an SS7Release Complete Message (RLC) to the signaling converter, and theconverter will send an analogous GR-303 release message to the remotedigital converter. The remote digital converter will provide a loop opento the telephone. The far side of the call will typically respond with aSS7 Release Complete Message (RLC) to the signaling processor as well.At this point, the call is disconnected.

FIG. 7 depicts a call being cleared when the far end of the callhangs-up. The far end will send an SS7 REL to the signaling processor,and the signaling processor will initiate release procedures for thecall. The signaling processor will send an SS7 REL to the signalingconverter, and the signaling converter will send an analogous GR-303disconnect message to the remote digital terminal. The remote digitalterminal provides an on-hook to the telephone. The signaling processorwill also provide a control instruction to the mux to disconnect the DS0from the VPI/VCI, and will send an SS7 RLC to the other side of thecall. When the remote digital terminal senses an on-hook from thetelephone signaling processor, it will provide a GR-303 release messageto the converter. The converter will provide an analogous SS7 RLC to thesignaling processor indicating that the connection has been cleared forre-use. At this point, the call is disconnected.

In FIGS. 4-7, the caller is provided with an interface to a broadbandsystem through a conventional GR-303 remote digital terminal. Thenetwork is able to provide this interface and provide selected ATMconnection on a call-by-call basis—all without the need for an ATMswitch or call-by-call control over an ATM cross-connect. Such a systemprovides a distinct advantage over prior systems.

The mux may implement DS0 to DS0 connections for particular calls.Referring to FIG. 3, if a call is placed from telephone 310 to telephone314, a DS0 from telephone 310 and a DS0 to telephone 314 would beselected by signaling processor 360. Mux 350 would cross-connect the twoDS0s in response to a command from signaling processor 360. Note thatthis occurs without converting the DS0s into ATM. In the alternative,the signaling processor may select a VPI/VCI for the call. The VPI/VCIwould be pre-provisioned back to mux 350 for connection to, the DS0 fortelephone 314.

In some embodiments, particular telephones may be pulse dial instead ofDTMF tone dial. The remote digital terminals are operational to detectthe digits outpulsed by the telephones and to provide GR-303 informationmessages to the signaling converter (through the mux). The remotedigital terminal can also receive an information message and outpulsethe calling number to a called telephone. In these scenarios, the muxwill not need to exchange DTMF with the telephones. The signalingconverter exchanges GR-303 information messages with the remote digitalinterfaces. The signaling processor will exchange this information withthe signaling converter through SS7 messages, and will not need toinstruct the mux to exchange DTMF with the caller.

In an alternative embodiment, the remote digital interface could beadapted to exchange DTMF digits and provide dial tone to the telephones.In this embodiment, the mux would not need to handle DTMF or dial tone.GR-303 set-up and information messages could be used to convey dialednumbers between the remote digital interface and the converter.

In some embodiments, the remote digital interface may use hybrid GR-303signaling. Hybrid GR-303 signaling employs robbed-bit ABCD signaling foron-hook/off-hook status in addition to a channel for additionalsignaling. In these embodiments, the mux would be adapted to forward thesignaling from the signaling channel and the ABCD robbed signaling bitsto the converter. The converter would be adapted to convert both intoanalogous SS7 messages.

FIGS. 8-12 depict various alternative arrangements of the invention, butthe invention is not limited to these alternatives. Those skilled in theart will appreciate how these variations could be combined in many otherdifferent arrangements that are all contemplated by the invention.

FIG. 8 depicts broadband system interface 800 that is comprised of mux850, signaling processor 860 and links 852 and 854. Also shown areconnections 830, 832, and 840; and links 831, 833, and 842. Thesecomponents are configured and operate as described above for thecorresponding reference numbers of FIG. 3, except that the signalingconverter has been incorporated into signaling processor 860.

FIG. 9 depicts broadband system interface 900 that is comprised of mux950, signaling processor 960 and links 952 and 954. Also shown areconnections 930, 932, and 940; and links 931, 933, and 942. Thesecomponents are configured and operate as described above for thecorresponding reference numbers of FIG. 3, except that the signalingconverter has been incorporated into mux 950.

FIG. 10 depicts broadband system interface 1000 that is comprised of mux1050, signaling processor 1060, signaling converter 1062, and links1052, 1054, and 1062. Also shown are connections 1030, 1032, and 1040;and links 1031, 1033, and 1042. These components are configured andoperate as described above except that resource device 1070 andconnection 1072 have been added. Resource device 1070 is capable ofproviding various resources in response to control instructions.Examples of resources are: tone detection, tone transmission, loopbacks,voice detection, voice messaging, echo cancellation, compression, or andencryption. Resource device 1070 includes a processor to interpret thetones and communicate with other devices. Resource device 1070communicates with signaling converter 1062 over link 1052. One skilledin the art will recognize other features for resource device 1070, suchas interdigit timing and various other timing functions. In this way,multiplexer 1050 does not require all digital signal processingapparatus, but connects DS0s to resource device 1070 using connection1072. Connection 1072 is typically a T1 connection although otherconnections would suffice. Resource device 1070 is capable of exchangingcontrol instructions over link 1052.

FIG. 11 depicts broadband system interface 1100 that is comprised of mux1150, signaling processor 1160, signaling converter 1162, and links1152, 1154, and 1164. Also shown are connections 1130, 1132, and 1144;and links 1131, 1133, and 1142. These components are configured andoperate as described above for the corresponding reference numbers ofFIG. 3, except that ATM cross-connect 1180 and connection 1182 have beenadded. ATM cross-connect 1180 is a conventional ATM cross-connect, suchas an NEC model 20. ATM cross-connect 1180 provides a plurality ofpre-provisioned VPI/VCI connections for mux 1150 over connection 1182.Connection 1182 is an ATM connection. These VPI/VCIs could bepre-provisioned through ATM cross-connect 1180 to a plurality ofdevices. Example include switches, servers, enhanced platforms, customerpremises equipment, and other muxes. The VPI/VCIs could terminate inother networks. The addition of cross-connect 1180 demonstrates how theselection of VPI/VCIs by the signaling processor on a call-by-call basisallows broadband system interface 1100 to route calls to selecteddestinations over selected broadband connections.

This is accomplished without the need for an ATM switch. This provides adistinct advantage over current ATM switch based systems in terms ofcost and control. ATM switches are typically very expensive and controlover the switch is relegated to the switch supplier. In the invention,the signaling processor exerts the control, and the signaling processordoes not need to be obtained from an ATM switch supplier.

The ATM Interworking Multiplexer

FIG. 12 shows one embodiment of the mux that is suitable for the presentinvention, but other muxes that support the requirements of theinvention are also applicable. Shown are control interface 1250, DS0interface 1255, digital signal processor 1256, ATM adaption layer (AAL)1257, and SONET interface 1258. SONET interface 1258 accepts ATM cellsfrom AAL 1257 and transmits them over connection 1240. Connection 1240is a SONET connection, such as an OC-3 connection. Control interface1250 exchanges control messages between the signaling processor, thesignaling converter, and the elements of the mux.

DS0 interface 1255 accepts GR-303 formatted signals over connections1230 and 1232; and links 1231 and 1233. DS0 interface 1255 isoperational to cross-connect particular DS0s to other particular DS0s inresponse to control instructions. DS0 interface 1255 cross-connects thesignaling channel DS0s of links 1231 and 1233 to the signaling channelDS0s of link 1254 to the signaling converter. The bearer channel DS0sare coupled to digital signal processor 1256 or AAL 1257 in response tocontrol instructions. In some embodiments, DS0 interface 1255 can alsomonitor ABCD bits from hybrid GR-303 connections and provide thisinformation to control interface 1250 for transfer to the signalingconverter. DS0 interface 1255 provides reciprocal processing in thereverse direction as well. For example, GR-303 signaling messages fromthe signaling converter received over link 1254 are sent to the remotedigital interface along with DS0 from either AAL 1257 or digital signalprocessor 1256.

DS0 interface 1255 receives the DS0s and handles them in accord withsignaling processor instructions received through control interface1250. This would include interconnecting particular DS0s to other DS0son particular calls. It would also include connecting particular DS0s toparticular functions of digital signal processor 1256 or AAL 1257.

Digital signal processor 1256 is operational to apply various digitalprocesses to particular DS0s in response to control instructionsreceived through control interface 1250. Examples of digital processinginclude: tone detection, tone transmission, loopbacks, voice detection,voice messaging, echo cancellation, compression, and encryption. Forexample, the signaling processor may instruct the mux to collect a DTMFdialed number, and then to apply echo cancellation to the DS0 prior toconversion to ATM.

Digital signal processor 1256 is connected to AAL 1257. As discussed,DS0s from DS0 interface 1255 may bypass digital signal processor 1256and be directly coupled to AAL 1257. AAL 1257 comprises both aconvergence sublayer and a segmentation and reassembly (SAR) layer. AAL1257 is operational to accept the DS0 format and convert the DS0information into ATM cells. AALs are known in the art and informationabout AALs is provided by International Telecommunications Union (ITU)document I.363. An AAL for voice is also described in U.S. Pat. No.5,606,553, which is hereby incorporated by reference into thisapplication. AAL 1257 obtains the virtual path identifier (VPI) andvirtual channel identifier (VCI) for each call from control interface1250. AAL 1257 also obtains the identity of the DS0 for each call (orthe DS0s for an Nx64 call). Control interface 1250 receives theseinstructions from the signaling processor. AAL 1257 then converts userinformation between the identified DS0 and the identified ATM virtualconnection. Acknowledgments that the assignments have been implementedmay be sent back to the signaling processor if desired. Calls with a bitrate that are a multiple of 64 kbit/second are known as Nx64 calls. Ifdesired, AAL 1257 can be capable of accepting control messages throughcontrol interface 1250 for Nx64 calls. The signaling processor wouldinstruct AAL 1257 to group the DS0s for the call.

As discussed above, the mux also handles calls in the oppositedirection—from SONET interface 1258 to DS0 interface 1255. For thiscommunications, the VPI/VCI has typically been selected and thecommunications routed through the cross-connect. As a result, AAL 1257needs only to identify the DS0 for that particular VPI/VCI. Thesignaling processor could provide this assignment through controlinterface 1250 to AAL 1257. A technique for processing VPI/VCIs isdisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,940,393, which is hereby incorporated byreference into this application.

DS0 connections are bi-directional and ATM connections are typicallyuni-directional. As a result, two virtual connections in opposingdirections will typically be required for each DS0. Those skilled in theart will appreciate how this can be accomplished in the context of theinvention. For example, the broadband system could be provisioned with asecond set of VPI/VCIs in the opposite direction as the original set ofVPI/VCIs. On each call, the mux would be configured to automaticallyinvoke this second VPI/VCI to provide a bi-directional virtualconnection to match the bi-directional DS0 on the call.

The Signaling Processor

The signaling processor is referred to as a call/connection manager(CCM), and it receives and processes telecommunications call signalingand control messages to select connections that establish communicationpaths for calls. In the preferred embodiment, the CCM processes SS7signaling to select connections for a call. CCM processing is describedin U.S. Pat. No. 6,031,840, which is incorporated herein by reference.

In addition to selecting connections, the CCM performs many otherfunctions in the context of call processing. It not only can controlrouting and select the actual connections, but it can also validatecallers, control echo cancelers, generate billing information, invokeintelligent network functions, access remote databases, manage traffic,and balance network loads. One skilled in the art will appreciate howthe CCM described below can be adapted to operate in the aboveembodiments.

FIG. 13 depicts a version of the CCM. Other versions are alsocontemplated. In the embodiment of FIG. 13, CCM 1300 controls an ATMinterworking multiplexer (mux) that performs interworking of DS0s andVPI/VCIs. However, the CCM may control other communications devices andconnections in other embodiments.

CCM 1300 comprises signaling platform 1310, control platform 1320, andapplication platform 1330. Each of the platforms 1310, 1320, and 1330 iscoupled to the other platforms.

Signaling platform 1310 is externally coupled to the SS7 systems—inparticular to systems having a message transfer part (MTP), an ISDN userpart (ISUP), a signaling connection control part (SCCP), an intelligentnetwork application part (INAP), and a transaction capabilitiesapplication part (TCAP). Control platform 1320 is externally coupled toa mux control, an echo control, a resource control, billing, andoperations.

Signaling platform 1310 comprises MTP levels 1-3, ISUP, TCAP, SCCP, andINAP functionality and is operational to transmit and receive the SS7messages. The ISUP, SCCP, INAP, and TCAP functionality use MTP totransmit and receive the SS7 messages. Together, this functionality isreferred as an “SS7 stack,” and it is well known. The software requiredby one skilled in the art to configure an SS7 stack is commerciallyavailable, for example, from the Trillium company.

Control platform 1320 is comprised of various external interfacesincluding a mux interface, an echo interface, a resource controlinterface, a billing interface, and an operations interface. The muxinterface exchanges messages with at least one mux. These messagescomprise DS0 to VPI/VCI assignments, acknowledgments, and statusinformation. The echo control interface exchanges messages with echocontrol systems. Messages exchanged with echo control systems mightinclude instructions to enable or disable echo cancellation onparticular DS0s, acknowledgments, and status information.

The resource control interface exchanges messages with externalresources. Examples of such resources are devices that implementcontinuity testing, encryption, compression, tonedetection/transmission, voice detection, and voice messaging. Themessages exchanged with resources are instructions to apply the resourceto particular DS0s, acknowledgments, and status information. Forexample, a message may instruct a continuity testing resource to providea loopback or to send and detect a tone for a continuity test.

The billing interface transfers pertinent billing information to abilling system. Typical billing information includes the parties to thecall, time points for the call, and any special features applied to thecall. The operations interface allows for the configuration and controlof CCM 1300. One skilled in the art will appreciate how to produce thesoftware for the interfaces in control platform 1320.

Application platform 1330 is functional to process signaling informationfrom signaling platform 1310 in order to select connections. Theidentity of the selected connections are provided to control platform1320 for the mux interface. Application platform 1330 is responsible forvalidation, translation, routing, call control, exceptions, screening,and error handling. In addition to providing the control requirementsfor the mux, application platform 1330 also provides requirements forecho control and resource control to the appropriate interface ofcontrol platform 1320. In addition, application platform 1330 generatessignaling information for transmission by signaling platform 1310. Thesignaling information might be ISUP, INAP, or TCAP messages to externalnetwork elements. Pertinent information for each call is stored in acall control block (CCB) for the call. The CCB can be used for trackingand billing the call.

Application platform 1330 operates in general accord with the Basic CallModel (BCM) defined by the ITU. An instance of the BCM is created tohandle each call. The BCM includes an originating process and aterminating process. Application platform 1330 includes a serviceswitching function (SSF) that is used to invoke the service controlfunction (SCF). Typically, the SCF is contained in a service controlpoint (SCP). The SCF is queried with TCAP or INAP messages. Theoriginating or terminating processes will access remote databases withintelligent network (IN) functionality via the SSF function.

Software requirements for application platform 1330 can be produced inspecification and description language (SDL) defined in ITU-T Z.100. TheSDL can be converted into C code. Additional C and C++ code can be addedas required to establish the environment.

CCM 1300 can be comprised of the above-described software loaded onto acomputer. The computer can be an Integrated Micro Products (IMP)FT-Sparc 600 using the Solaris operating system and conventionaldatabase systems. It may be desirable to utilize the multi-threadingcapability of a Unix operating system.

From FIG. 13, it can be seen that application platform 1330 processessignaling information to control numerous systems and facilitate callconnections and services. The SS7 signaling is exchanged with externalcomponents through signaling platform 1310, and control information isexchanged with external systems through control platform 1320.Advantageously, CCM 1300 is not integrated into a switch CPU that iscoupled to a switching matrix. Unlike an SCP, CCM 1300 is capable ofprocessing ISUP messages independently of TCAP queries.

SS7 Message Designations

SS7 messages are well known. Designations for various SS7 messagescommonly are used. Those skilled in the art are familiar with thefollowing message designations:

ACM—Address Complete Message

ANM—Answer Message

BLO—Blocking

BLA—Blocking Acknowledgment

CPG—Call Progress

CRG—Charge Information

CGB—Circuit Group Blocking

CGBA—Circuit Group Blocking Acknowledgment

GRS—Circuit Group Reset

GRA—Circuit Group Reset Acknowledgment

CGU—Circuit Group Unblocking

CGUA—Circuit Group Unblocking Acknowledgment

CQM—Circuit Group Query

CQR—Circuit Group Query Response

CRM—Circuit Reservation Message

CRA—Circuit Reservation Acknowledgment

CVT—Circuit Validation Test

CVR—Circuit Validation Response

CFN—Confusion

COT—Continuity

CCR—Continuity Check Request

EXM—Exit Message

INF—Information

INR—Information Request

IAM—Initial Address

LPA—Loop Back Acknowledgment

PAM—Pass Along

REL—Release

RLC—Release Complete

RSC—Reset Circuit

RES—Resume

SUS—Suspend

UBL—Unblocking

UBA—Unblocking Acknowledgment

UCIC—Unequipped Circuit Identification Code.

CCM Tables

Call processing typically entails two aspects. First, an incoming or“originating” connection is recognized by an originating call process.For example, the initial connection that a call uses to enter a networkis the originating connection in that network. Second, an outgoing or“terminating” connection is selected by a terminating call process. Forexample, the terminating connection is coupled to the originatingconnection in order to extend the call through the network. These twoaspects of call processing are referred to as the originating side ofthe call the terminating side of the call.

FIG. 14 depicts a data structure used by application platform 1330 toexecute the BCM. This is accomplished through a series of tables thatpoint to one another in various ways. The pointers are typicallycomprised of next function and next index designations. The nextfunction points to the next table, and the next index points to an entryor a range of entries in that table. The data structure has trunkcircuit table 1400, trunk group table 1402, exception table 1404, ANItable 1406, called number table 1408, and routing table 1410.

Trunk circuit table 1400 contains information related to theconnections. Typically, the connections are DS0 or ATM connections.Initially, trunk circuit table 1400 is used to retrieve informationabout the originating connection. Later, the table is used to retrieveinformation about the terminating connection. When the originatingconnection is being processed, the trunk group number in trunk circuittable 1400 points to the applicable trunk group for the originatingconnection in trunk group table 1402.

Trunk group table 1402 contains information related to the originatingand terminating trunk groups. When the originating connection is beingprocessed, trunk group table 1402 provides information relevant to thetrunk group for the originating connection and typically points toexception table 1404.

Exception table 1404 is used to identify various exception conditionsrelated to the call that may influence the routing or other handling ofthe call. Typically, exception table 1404 points to ANI table 1406.Although, exception table 1404 may point directly to trunk group table1402, called number table 1408, or routing table 1410.

ANI table 1406 is used to identify any special characteristics relatedto the caller's number. The caller's number is commonly known asautomatic number identification (ANI). ANI table 1406 typically pointsto called number table 1408. Although, ANI table 1406 may point directlyto trunk group table 1402 or routing table 1410.

Called number table 1408 is used to identify routing requirements basedon the called number. This will be the case for standard telephonecalls. Called number table 1408 typically points to routing table 1410.Although, it may point to trunk group table 1402.

Routing table 1410 has information relating to the routing of the callfor the various connections. Routing table 1410 is entered from apointer in either exception table 1404, ANI table 1406, or called numbertable 1408. Routing table 1410 typically points to a trunk group intrunk group table 1402.

When exception table 1404, ANI table 1406, called number table 1408, orrouting table 1410 point to trunk group table 1402, they effectivelyselect the terminating trunk group. When the terminating connection isbeing processed, the trunk group number in trunk group table 1402 pointsto the trunk group that contains the applicable terminating connectionin trunk circuit table 1402.

The terminating trunk circuit is used to extend the call. The trunkcircuit is typically a VPI/VCI or a DS0. Thus it can be seen that bymigrating through the tables, a terminating connection can be selectedfor a call.

FIG. 15 is an overlay of FIG. 14. The tables from FIG. 14 are present,but for clarity, their pointers have been omitted. FIG. 15 illustratesadditional tables that can be accessed from the tables of FIG. 14. Theseinclude CCM ID table 1500, treatment table 1504, query/response table1506, and message table 1508.

CCM ID table 1500 contains various CCM SS7 point codes. It can beaccessed from trunk group table 1402, and it points back to trunk grouptable 1402.

Treatment table 1504 identifies various special actions to be taken inthe course of call processing. This will typically result in thetransmission of a release message (REL) and a cause value. Treatmenttable 1504 can be accessed from trunk circuit table 1400, trunk grouptable 1402, exception table 1404, ANI table 1406, called number table1408, routing table 1410, and query/response table 1506.

Query/response table 1506 has information used to invoke the SCF. It canbe accessed by trunk group table 1402, exception table 1404, ANI table1406, called number table 1408, and routing table 1410. It points totrunk group table 1402, exception table 1404, ANI table 1406, callednumber table 1408, routing table 1410, and treatment table 1504.

Message table 1508 is used to provide instructions for messages from thetermination side of the call. It can be accessed by trunk group table1402 and points to trunk group table 1402.

FIGS. 16-23 depict examples of the various tables described above. FIG.16 depicts an example of the trunk circuit table. Initially, the trunkcircuit table is used to access information about the originatingcircuit. Later in the processing, it is used to provide informationabout the terminating circuit. For originating circuit processing, theassociated point code is used to enter the table. This is the point codeof the switch or CCM associated with the originating circuit. Forterminating circuit processing, the trunk group number is used to enterthe table.

The table also contains the circuit identification code (CIC). The CICidentifies the circuit which is typically a DS0 or a VPI/VCI. Thus, theinvention is capable of mapping the SS7 CICs to the ATM VPI/VCI. If thecircuit is ATM, the virtual path (VP) and the virtual channel (VC) alsocan be used for identification. The group member number is a numericcode that is used for terminating circuit selection. The hardwareidentifier identifies the location of the hardware associated with theoriginating circuit. The echo canceler (EC) identification (ID) entryidentifies the echo canceler for the originating circuit.

The remaining fields are dynamic in that they are filled during callprocessing. The echo control entry is filled based on three fields insignaling messages: the echo suppresser indicator in the IAM or CRM, theecho control device indicator in the ACM or CPM, and the informationtransfer capability in the IAM. This information is used to determine ifecho control is required on the call. The satellite indicator is filledwith the satellite indicator in the IAM or CRM. It may be used to rejecta call if too many satellites are used. The circuit status indicates ifthe given circuit is idle, blocked, or not blocked. The circuit stateindicates the current state of the circuit, for example, active ortransient. The time/date indicates when the idle circuit went idle.

FIG. 17 depicts an example of the trunk group table. During originationprocessing, the trunk group number from the trunk circuit table is usedto key into the trunk table. Glare resolution indicates how a glaresituation is to be resolved. Glare is dual seizure of the same circuit.If the glare resolution entry is set to “even/odd,” the network elementwith the higher point code controls the even circuits, and the networkelement with the lower point code controls the odd circuits. If theglare resolution entry is set to “all,” the CCM controls all of thecircuits. If the glare resolution entry is set to “none,” the CCMyields. The continuity control entry lists the percent of callsrequiring continuity tests on the trunk group.

The common language location identifier (CLLI) entry is a Bellcorestandardized entry. The satellite trunk group entry indicates that thetrunk group uses a satellite. The satellite trunk group entry is used inconjunction with the satellite indicator field described above todetermine if the call has used too many satellite connections and,therefore, must be rejected. The service indicator indicates if theincoming message is from a CCM (ATM) or a switch (TDM). The outgoingmessage index (OMI) points to the message table so that outgoingmessages can obtain parameters. The associated number plan area (NPA)entry identifies the area code.

Selection sequence indicates the methodology that will be used to selecta connection. The selection sequence field designations tell the trunkgroup to select circuits based on the following: least idle, most idle,ascending, descending, clockwise, and counterclockwise. The hop counteris decremented from the IAM. If the hop counter is zero, the call isreleased. Automatic congestion control (ACC) active indicates whether ornot congestion control is active. If automatic congestion control isactive, the CCM may release the call. During termination processing, thenext function and index are used to enter the trunk circuit table.

FIG. 18 depicts an example of the exception table. The index is used asa pointer to enter the table. The carrier selection identification (ID)parameter indicates how the caller reached the network and is used forrouting certain types of calls. The following are used for this field:spare or no indication, selected carrier identification codepresubscribed and input by the calling party, selected carrieridentification code presubscribed and not input by the calling party,selected carrier identification code presubscribed and no indication ofinput by the calling party, and selected carrier identification code notpresubscribed and input by the calling party. The carrier identification(ID) indicates the network that the caller wants to use. This is used toroute calls directly to the desired network. The called party numbernature of address differentiates between 0+ calls, 1+ calls, test calls,and international calls. For example, international calls might berouted to a pre-selected international carrier.

The called party “digits from” and “digits to” focus further processingunique to a defined range of called numbers. The “digits from” field isa decimal number ranging from 1-15 digits. It can be any length and, iffilled with less than 15 digits, is filled with 0s for the remainingdigits. The “digits to” field is a decimal number ranging from 1-15digits. It can be any length and, if filled with less than 15 digits, isfilled with 9s for the remaining digits. The next function and nextindex entries point to the next table which is typically the ANI table.

FIG. 19 depicts an example of the ANI table. The index is used to enterthe table. The calling party category differentiates among types ofcalling parties, for example, test calls, emergency calls, and ordinarycalls. The calling party\charge number entry nature of address indicateshow the ANI is to be obtained. The following is the table fill that isused in this field: unknown, unique subscriber numbers, ANI notavailable or not provided, unique national number, ANI of the calledparty included, ANI of the called party not included, ANI of the calledparty includes national number, non-unique subscriber number, non-uniquenational number, non-unique international number, test line test code,and all other parameter values.

The “digits from” and “digits to” focus further processing unique to ANIwithin a given range. The data entry indicates if the ANI represents adata device that does not need echo control. Originating lineinformation (OLI) differentiates among, ordinary subscriber, multipartyline, ANI failure, station level rating, special operator handling,automatic identified outward dialing, coin or non-coin call usingdatabase access, 800/888 service call, coin, prison/inmate service,intercept (blank, trouble, and regular), operator handled call, outwardwide area telecommunications service, telecommunications relay service(TRS), cellular services, private paystation, and access for privatevirtual network types of service. The next function and next index pointto the next table which is typically the called number table.

FIG. 20 depicts an example of the called number table. The index is usedto make enter the table. The called number nature of address entryindicates the type of dialed number, for example, national versusinternational. The “digits from” and “digits to” entries focus furtherprocessing unique to a range of called numbers. The processing followsthe processing logic of the “digits from” and “digits to” fields in FIG.18. The next function and next index point to the next table which istypically the routing table.

FIG. 21 depicts an example of the routing table. The index is used toenter the table. The transit network selection (TNS) networkidentification (ID) plan indicates the number of digits to use for theCIC. The transit network selection “digits from” and “digits to” fieldsdefine the range of numbers to identify an international carrier. Thecircuit code indicates the need for an operator on the call. The nextfunction and next index entries in the routing table are used toidentify a trunk group. The second and third next function/index entriesdefine alternate routes. The third next function entry can also pointback to another set of next functions in the routing table in order toexpand the number of alternate route choices. The only other entriesallowed are pointers to the treatment table. If the routing table pointsto the trunk group table, then the trunk group table typically points toa trunk circuit in the trunk circuit table. The yield from the trunkcircuit table is the terminating connection for the call.

It can be seen from FIGS. 16-21 that the tables can be configured andrelate to one another in such a way that call processes can enter thetrunk circuit table for the originating connection and can traversethrough the tables by keying on information and using pointers. Theyield of the tables is typically a terminating connection identified bythe trunk circuit table. In some cases, treatment is specified by thetreatment table instead of a connection. If, at any point during theprocessing, a trunk group can be selected, processing may proceeddirectly to the trunk group table for terminating circuit selection. Forexample, it may be desirable to route calls from a particular ANI over aparticular set of trunk groups. In this case, the ANI table would pointdirectly to the trunk group table, and the trunk group table would pointto the trunk circuit table for a terminating circuit. The default paththrough the tables is: trunk circuit, trunk group, exception, ANI,called number, routing, trunk group, and trunk circuit.

FIG. 22 depicts an example of the treatment table. Either the index orthe message received cause number are filled and are used to enter thetable. If the index is filled and used to enter the table, the generallocation, coding standard, and cause value indicator are used togenerate an SS7 REL. The message received cause value entry is the causevalue in a received SS7 message. If the message received cause value isfilled and used to enter the table, then the cause value from thatmessage is used in a REL from the CCM. The next function and next indexpoint to the next table.

FIG. 23 depicts an example of the message table. This table allows theCCM to alter information in outgoing messages. Message type is used toenter the table, and it represents the outgoing standard SS7 messagetype. The parameter is the pertinent parameter within the outgoing SS7message. The indexes point to various entries in the trunk group tableand determine if parameters can be unchanged, omitted, or modified inthe outgoing messages.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that variations from thespecific embodiments disclosed above are contemplated by the invention.The invention should not be restricted to the above embodiments, butshould be measured by the following claims.

1. A method of operating a communication system, the method comprising:transferring a dial tone from a bearer interface for a caller; receivingDual Tone Multi-Frequency (DTMF) signals from the caller into the bearerinterface; processing the DTMF signals in the bearer interface todetermine a called number; transferring a first message indicating thecalled number from the bearer interface to a processing system;processing the called number in the processing system to select anidentifier; transferring a second message indicating the identifier fromthe processing system to the bearer interface; and receiving the usercommunications into the bearer interface, and in response to the secondmessage, converting the user communications into a packet formatincluding the identifier and transferring the user communications in thepacket format including the identifier to a communication network,wherein the communication network routes the user communications basedon the identifier.
 2. The method of claim 1 further comprising providingecho cancellation in the bearer interface.
 3. The method of claim 1further comprising providing compression for the user communications inthe bearer interface.
 4. The method of claim 1 further comprisingproviding voice detection in the bearer interface.
 5. The method ofclaim 1 further comprising providing voice messaging in the bearerinterface.
 6. The method of claim 1 further comprising providingringback in the bearer interface.
 7. The method of claim 1 wherein thereceiving the user communications comprises receiving the usercommunications in a GR-303 format.
 8. The method of claim 1 wherein theprocessing system not in a telecommunication switch.
 9. The method ofclaim 1 wherein the identifier comprises an asynchronous transfer modevirtual identifier.
 10. The method of claim 1 wherein processing thecalled number to select the identifier comprises sending a signalingmessage to a network element.
 11. A communication system comprising: abearer interface configured to transfer a dial tone for a caller,receive Dual Tone Multi-Frequency (DTMF) signals from the caller,process the DTMF signals to determine a called number, and transfer afirst message indicating the called number; a processing systemconfigured to process the called number to select an identifier andtransfer a second message indicating the identifier; and wherein thebearer interface is further configured to receive the second message andthe user communications, and in response to the second message, convertthe user communications into a packet format including the identifierand transfer the user communications in the packet format including theidentifier to a communication network, wherein the communication networkroutes the user communications based on the identifier.
 12. Thecommunication system of claim 11 wherein the bearer interface isconfigured to provide echo cancellation.
 13. The communication system ofclaim 11 wherein the bearer interface is configured to providecompression for the user communications.
 14. The communication system ofclaim 11 wherein the bearer interface is configured to provide voicedetection.
 15. The communication system of claim 11 wherein the bearerinterface is configured to provide voice messaging.
 16. Thecommunication system of claim 11 wherein the bearer interface isconfigured to provide ringback.
 17. The communication system of claim 11wherein the bearer interface is configured to receive the usercommunications in a GR-303 format.
 18. The communication system of claim11 wherein the processing system not in a telecommunication switch. 19.The communication system of claim 11 wherein the identifier comprises anasynchronous transfer mode virtual identifier.
 20. The communicationsystem of claim 11 wherein the processing system is configured to send asignaling message to a network element when processing the called numberto select the identifier.